19TH/20TH CENTURY

Details

A VANATU CLUB
19TH/20TH CENTURY
The rectangular head with waisted sides and central ridge to each side, the flanged butt with hemispherical finial, dark glossy patina.
43¾ in. (101 cm.);
together with a Tonga pole club, 19th century - 37¾ in. (96 cm.) long; and a Zulu Knobkerrie, 19th century with attached label "Rorkes Drift. 23 January. 1879" - 31½ in. (80 cm.) long (3)

Special notice

This lot is offered without reserve. No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 15% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.

Lot Essay

The name Rorke's Drift is synonymous with an epic Anglo-Zulu War battle on 22 and 23 January 1879. 4,000 Zulu warriors stormed the hospital built around James Rorke's original farm and despite the overwhelming odds, there followed one of the most gallant defenses in British Military history. The battle lasted for 13 hours after which the Zulu's withdrew having lost 500 men. The British suffered 25 casulaties. Eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded for gallantry in this battle.

More from OUT OF THE ORDINARY THE DISCERNING AND INDIVIDUAL TASTE OF CHRISTOPHER GIBBS AND HARRIS LINDSAY

View All